A randomized control trial: To evaluate the effect of continuous infusion of low dose vasopressors in elective Cesarean section under spinal anesthesia

Introduction: A lot of researches have been done to support the role of vasopressors in elective Cesarean section to prevent hypotension in patient under spinal anesthesia resulting in better hemodynamic control in mother and fetus. This study was conducted to compare the effect of low dose ephedrine (60 mg) and phenylephrine (2 mg) on hemodynamic stability and fetal acid base profile in patient posted for elective caesarean section under spinal anesthesia. Materials and methods: Ninety three patients were enrolled in this study and randomly divided into three groups. Group C received ephedrine infusion; group B received phenylephrine infusion while group A were preloaded with crystalloid. Maternal vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, and arterial oxygen saturation) and fetal APGAR score and acid-base status were recorded. Results: Hypotension was significantly recorded in crystalloid group as compared to phenylephrine and ephedrine group. Apgar scores in newborns were above 8 in all three groups. Umbilical cord blood pH was higher in phenylephrine and ephedrine groups in comparison to crystalloid group. Conclusion: Prophylactic low dose phenylephrine and ephedrine infusion were more effective than crystalloid preloading in prevention of hypotension and fetal acidosis during spinal anesthesia for elective Cesarean section.